Operationalizing knowledge coevolution: towards a sustainable fishery for Nunavummiut

Abstract

Knowledge coevolution is the process through which information is generated by joining knowledge systems in an inclusive and iterative way to facilitate self-determination of communities and promote cultural resilience. A central and practical component of this framework is the fostering of progress towards improved co-management and community led research. Here we illustrate a knowledge coevolution framework in the context of a major five-year genomics and food security fishery research project in Gjoa Haven, Nunavut. We highlight the process, changes in research objectives, logistical requirements, mutual benefits, and challenges associated with Northern collaborative research, and what lessons we have learned from the process. Knowledge coevolution could be linked to more inclusive and effective fishery co-management in Nunavut and possibly elsewhere. Further, the research process appears to have reinforced Indigenous Knowledge and western science without merging these distinct knowledge systems. Here we strive to provide readers with concrete examples of knowledge coevolution and encourage research groups to incorporate and improve these practices in future projects and in adaptive fishery co-management. We further call on funding agencies to place more value, and thus budgetary priority, on activities related to ongoing consultation, engagement, dissemination, and implementation of project outcomes.
 

Identification of Arctic Food Fish Species for Anthropogenic Contaminant Testing Using Geography and Genetics

“…ITK proved crucial for the mapping of subsistence fishing locations, including local context as to routes, equipment (hand lines, spears, and nets), as well as optimal times for western sampling protocols and resulted in robust knowledge exchange [ 36 , 49 ]. The mapping tool and the interactive online atlases facilitated community validation by Elders and harvesters and resulted in the sampling at more than 10 traditional subsistence fishing sites, excluding sampling done at some closely adjacent sites.…”

“…We selected Hg, As, and PCBs for assay at the behest of the people of Gjoa Haven, an Inuit community on the shores of the lower Northwest Passage, who, as indicated, rely on anadromous salmonids as an important part of their traditional diet. Success in sampling depended upon a respect and integration of ITK and interactive mapping and atlases as well as sample tracking using a newly developed R-based barcoding system [ 36 , 38 ]. A large number of samples were obtained and, overall, 6% (31/540) of the fish tested for Hg exceeded Canadian guidelines for commercial sale (0.5 mg·kg −1 wet weight) [ 55 ], with preliminary analysis of a few fish showing that much of the Hg was in the neurotoxic methylated form.…”

“…Indeed, the project was initiated by the Hunters and Trappers Association and supported by Elders in the community, with these groups continuing to guide the process. New approaches to the gathering of ITK facilitated the identification of fishing locations as well as traditional methods and practices [ 36 ]. Fish were sampled in December–June under ice and August–September in open water using nets or occasionally with hand lines or spears as described previously [ 37 ].…”

Knowledge co‐production: A pathway to effective fisheries management, conservation, and governance

“…The research team included the Association’s board of directors, academics, students, local knowledge holders, technicians, and project facilitators, and federal and territorial government representatives. The project was designed collaboratively from the ground up using a “knowledge co‐evolution” (an advancement of co‐production) framework (Chapman and Schott 2020), and included steering committees that ensured community objectives remained central to all research activities, questions of intellectual property and data ownership were addressed, and interpretation of results aligned with local knowledge (for detailed descriptions see Chapman and Schott 2020; Schott et al 2020). The final objectives were to better understand population structures of Arctic Char Salvelinus alpinus ( Iqaluk ) and whitefish (Coregoninae; Kavihilik ) species to assess and balance subsistence and commercial harvesting opportunities.…”

Potential impacts of sea ice and ship traffic change to caribou sea ice crossing areas surrounding King William Island, Nunavut, Canada

“…We are also aware of ongoing wildlife, fish, and harvest monitoring in Uqsuqtuuq (Schott et al 2020), and evolving approaches to wildlife co-monitoring in other Kitikmeot communities (Peacock et al 2020). To really understand the impacts of changing (or variable) sea ice and ship traffic on caribou crossings around KWI more focused partnerships in community, research, and government monitoring would be needed.…”